Ruby has been counting down the days, and could not have been more excited to celebrate her 7th birthday, and we were all so happy to be spend the day focused on her. Ruby is just the best! Honestly, I wish everyone could know her and experience her pure love and joy. She loves to run errands with me and everywhere we go, people tell me how lucky I am to have such a delightful little helper. She makes friends easily and often has a household of friends, usually playing Barbies or "family". Ruby is really creative and loves to draw, paint, and do just about any type of craft project. She has gotten really good at cartwheels and practices her splits any chance she gets. Her giggle is completely contagious and her hugs are full on and absolutely amazing. Now before it starts to sound like she is too good to be true, don't worry, she does have a few faults. She is grumpy in the morning and we have all had to learn how to joke her into a smile before she leaves for school. Ruby has very definite opinions about how she wants the world to work, and isn't particularly patient when things don't go her way. Her foot stomping and door slamming are not my favorite, but she is quick to apologize, and always wants a hug once she is calm.
Over the past year, school had definitely been interesting for Ruby. Kindergarten ended early for her in March and she had to finish the rest of the year online. That was tough - her teacher was amazing, - but computer learning is not really ideal for little ones. When first grade started, she was only able to be with her class every other day and missed being with her friends. Unfortunately, her learning really seemed to be affected and reading has not come easily to her. Ruby has worked really hard since the school year started, reading with me and Tim and practicing her spelling and nonsense words. The improvement has been amazing and she surprises us every day with all that she is able to read. I have no doubt that this is a pattern, that she will succeed at anything she decides is important.
Ruby had big plans for her birthday, but unfortunately, a Covid exposure meant she couldn't go to school, and that the celebrations on her actual birthday had to be small. She was a good sport about the whole thing and I think loved having us all to herself. We started the day with a crown, a banner, and the "7" balloon that she has been admiring in the grocery store all year. She was so excited about each of her presents, especially the makeup and her new bike - she jumped on and immediately took off to show the neighborhood.
For her birthday dinner, Ruby chose takeout from Mooyah and a picnic in the canyon. We had the best time exploring the park and playing games on the lawn.
Ruby ended the night with a birthday candle and ice cream, and the softest new pajamas and went to bed a very happy little seven year old.
The parties may have been small on her actual birthday, but we had plenty of other chances to celebrate this awesome little girl. Grandma brought the sweetest card and a Barbie mannequin that Ruby can use to practice her hair skills.
For her family party, Ruby didn't have any trouble deciding that she wanted a dog theme. She is absolutely obsessed with puppies so it was absolutely perfect - and that cake - cutest puppy ever. Having family here to celebrate was the perfect ending to a week (or two) of celebrating this sweet girl.
Sharing a party with Miles is the best!
